Hurst Beans Split Pea and Asparagus Soup

Cozy Up with Hurst Beans Split Pea and Asparagus Soup

As the days get shorter and the evenings cooler, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting soup to warm you from the inside out. Today, we’re sharing a fantastic recipe for Hurst Beans Split Pea and Asparagus Soup – a delicious and surprisingly easy dish that’s packed with flavor and goodness. This isn’t your average split pea soup; the addition of fresh asparagus and the smoky flavor from Hurst’s HamPeas® and ham shanks elevates it to a whole new level.

This soup is a wonderful way to use up any leftover ham shanks, transforming them into a rich and flavorful broth. But even if you don’t have leftover ham, the Hurst’s HamPeas® provide a fantastic base for the smoky flavor we’re aiming for. The asparagus adds a lovely freshness and vibrant color, making this soup as visually appealing as it is tasty.

What makes this soup special?

• Flavorful Base: Hurst’s HamPeas® and smoked ham shanks create a deeply savory and smoky broth.
• Nutrient-Rich: Split peas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while asparagus provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Easy to Make: This soup comes together quickly with minimal effort – perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s a cozy and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Tips for the Best Soup:

• Ham Shank Quality: The better the quality of your ham shanks, the more flavorful your soup will be. Look for shanks that are well-marbled with fat.
• Simmer Time: Don’t rush the simmering process! Allowing the soup to simmer for the full 60 minutes (or even longer) will allow the flavors to meld together and the peas to become wonderfully tender.
• Puree to Your Liking: Adjust the consistency of the soup to your preference. If you like a smoother soup, puree it thoroughly. If you prefer a bit of texture, leave some of the peas intact.
• Seasoning is Key: Don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Hurst Beans Split Pea and Asparagus Soup with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping, a side salad, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. It’s also delicious topped with a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of olive oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pre-cooked ham instead of ham shanks?

A: Yes, you can! Use about 2 cups of diced, cooked ham. Add it to the pot along with the other ingredients. You may need to adjust the seasoning, as pre-cooked ham is often saltier.

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

A: To make it vegetarian, omit the ham shanks and use vegetable broth instead of water. For a vegan version, omit the ham shanks, use vegetable broth, and ensure the Hurst’s HamPeas® are vegan-friendly (check the ingredient list). You may want to add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?

A: Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

A: You can use a regular blender, but be careful when blending hot liquids. Blend in batches and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.